Viña Elena 'Finca CQ' Monastrell 2023 drops the heavy, jammy stereotype of Jumilla reds for something seriously fresh and highly energetic. Elena Pacheco and Isio Ramos craft this 100% Monastrell from 32 year old organic bush vines perched high up at 2,300 feet elevation on the Casa Quemada single estate, where a northwest facing orientation protects the grapes from over ripening in the hot Mediterranean sun. By blending fruit from a light sandy plot and a structured limestone plot, then aging it for seven months mostly in concrete tanks with a small portion in large neutral French oak barrels, they have created a beautifully balanced red with incredible structural focus. It kicks off with a perfumed, expressive nose of violets and rose petals before opening up into bright Mediterranean flavors of dark plum, fresh blackberry, and a hint of fig. The palate is silky and bright with a textured, chalky grip, making it an instantly appealing, easygoing pour that pairs perfectly with grilled pork skewers, lamb chops, or rich pasta dishes.